MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Charges have been brought against an 18-year-old individual in connection with the tragic mass shooting that took place last summer at the Minneapolis backyard music venue known as Nudieland. The incident resulted in the death of 35-year-old August Golden and left six others injured. The shooting occurred on the evening of August 11, 2023, outside a residence located off 16th Avenue South and East 22nd Street in the Ventura Village neighborhood. The suspect, who was 17 at the time of the shooting, is now facing seven felony charges, including aiding and abetting second-degree murder and four counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
The suspect was apprehended on Monday, leading to the unveiling of the charges. The individual made their initial court appearance in juvenile court on Tuesday afternoon. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty mentioned that the decision on whether to seek adult certification for the defendant is still pending.
The second teenager involved in the incident, also 17 at the time of the shooting, is currently being sought, with their identity and charges kept under seal. Moriarty’s office spokesperson explained that the charge of aiding and abetting second-degree murder is essentially equivalent to second-degree murder in terms of penalties and culpability. However, these charges necessitate different forms of evidence for a conviction.
According to details from the juvenile petition, the two suspects were present at the concert where witnesses reported them making derogatory comments about the sexual orientation of attendees. Following their departure, shots were fired less than a minute later from the neighboring yard. Police recovered 10 shell casings at the scene. Witnesses, including Aaron Dively, recounted a queerphobic altercation involving the suspects before the shooting took place.
Partner of the deceased August Golden, Caitlin Angelica, expressed her ongoing grief and highlighted the strength of the community’s support amid the tragedy. Angelica emphasized the systemic nature of the issue, expressing sadness over the cycle of violence that incarceration may perpetuate. She recalled Golden as a compassionate individual who selflessly supported others, inspiring her to embody his values in her daily life.
The investigation unveiled DNA evidence on a cigarette butt left at the scene linking one suspect to the crime, while the other suspect was identified through surveillance footage. Moriarty addressed the queerphobic nature of the comments preceding the shooting and emphasized the office’s commitment to holding the perpetrators accountable and supporting those impacted by the violence.
In conclusion, the tragic events at Nudieland underscore the complexities of the case as authorities work towards justice. The community continues to mourn the loss of August Golden while grappling with the aftermath of the senseless violence that occurred on that fateful summer evening in Minneapolis.